Exercise Apparatus and Method

ABSTRACT

An exercise apparatus is designed specifically to provide a cross training apparatus for mixed martial arts training. The exercise apparatus combines separate training methodologies and apparatuses that are desirable for mixed martial arts training, then arranges each of those apparatuses into a desired spatial orientation at separate stations. Stations include a close combat station, two stations that are directed upper body strength training, and a core training station. Users of the apparatus go through an exercise routine at each station, then move immediately to the next station and go through a routine for that station. The exercise routines may be timed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to exercise devices, and more specifically to an exercise apparatus that combines at least four different exercise stations, each configured for providing a different kind of physical activity, and arranges the exercise stations in proximity to one another so that users may go through a timed exercise routine with a focus on a different, specific activities or activities at each of the stations. Each station is adapted to provide specialized cross training uniquely suited for mixed martial arts performance.

BACKGROUND

There is a wide variety of different types of exercise equipment on the market and there is specialized exercise equipment that has been designed to facilitate a variety of exercise motions. To name just a couple of examples, treadmills allow a user to walk or run in place, simulating a striding motion. Stair climbing simulators allow a user to simulate the motion and physical activity that occurs when a person ascends a set of stairs. Stationary bicycles allow a user to pedal in place and thereby simulate bicycle riding as a form of physical activity.

Most gyms include the types of exercise machines just mentioned and many other machines and equipment such as weight machines and free weights, all of which can be useful and important parts of an exercise program. However, many people who visit gyms can be overwhelmed by the variety of available exercise machines and how each of the machines can be used beneficially in an overall exercise program tailored for the individual.

Partly owing to the availability of a vast number of different kinds of training equipment, new styles of training and new training regimens have become popular. Cross training is a popular style of training that refers to the use of combining a variety of exercise modalities to improve overall performance. A basic tenet of cross training regimes is to take advantage of the particular effectiveness of each training method, while at the same time overcoming the shortcomings of each method by combining it with other methods that address the shortcomings.

There are numerous cross training programs tailored to different sports and/or individual goals. Typically, the exercise modalities used in any cross training routine includes activities for improving fitness of particular muscle groups, endurance, flexibility and weight loss and control. In a mixed martial arts cross training regimen a variety of different exercises are used to train for multiple martial art forms or fighting methods, such as Jujitsu, Muay Thai and other hybrid arts—the exercise modalities are selected to train the athlete in each of the selected methods. However, cross training methodologies for mixed martial arts typically relies on a variety of disparate exercise equipment, typically located at different areas of a gym. Designing a cross training regimen specifically targeted at desired outcomes for mixed martial arts enthusiasts can therefore be difficult.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention involve an exercise apparatus designed specifically to provide a cross training apparatus and methods for mixed martial arts training. More particularly the exercise apparatus of the invention combines separate training methodologies and apparatuses that are desirable for mixed martial arts training, then arranges each of those apparatuses into a desired spatial orientation at separate stations. Users of the apparatus perform an exercise routine at one station, then move immediately to the next station and go through a routine for that station.

In one aspect of the present invention, the exercise apparatus utilizes four separate training stations. The first station is a heavy bag station that may be combined with speed bags, which is used to train in various hand-to-hand and close combat techniques. The second and third stations are adapted to provide upper body strengthening, but have been further adapted to provide leg exercise as well. The second station is a pull up station. The third station is a dip station. The fourth station is a core exercising station that utilizes inclined benches on which the user does sit ups, preferably with added weights such as a medicine ball. Each bench is arranged in an orientation relative to adjacent benches such that the users may pass a weighted device such as a medicine ball to the adjacent user to enhance core fitness. Additional stations and exercise protocols may be added to each of the stations as detailed herein.

In another aspect of the present invention, both the pull up station and the dip station are configured so that the user is able to adjust the user interface devices—the handholds—both vertically and horizontally. Vertical adjustment allows the user to lower the handholds as the user becomes fatigued, even to the point where the user's feet are on the ground, yet still performing the exercise with the assistance of the user's legs. The horizontal adjustment allows the user to adjust the handholds to meet the best position for each individual, and to vary the muscle groups exercised.

Another aspect of the invention involves the heavy bag station and includes a rigid suspension apparatus—the structure that attaches the heavy bag to an overhead structure from which the bag is suspended. Referred to herein as a “suspension hat,” the hat allows a user to remove the heavy bag from its suspension point, for example, to simulate a martial arts move where the trainee grapples with the bag, taking it to the ground to simulate taking an opponent to the ground, and then replace the bag in its suspended position quickly and without assistance.

In one aspect of the invention, each of the stations is arranged around a central frame structure. Preferably the central frame defines a square or rectangular platform and a different training station is found at each of the four sides of the platform.

In another form of the present invention, a timer is used to time the duration of exercise that each user goes through at each station. The users progress through each of the exercise stations in sequential order, moving to the next station when the predetermined time interval has passed. Timed recuperation intervals and used between training intervals.

The invention will be better understood and its numerous features, utilities, objects and advantages will be apparent by reference to the following detailed description of the invention when taken in conjunction with the following drawings and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first illustrated embodiment of an exercise apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view illustrating portions of the first exercise station—the heavy bag station, and the third exercise station—the pull up station, in isolation.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing the apparatus that is used to suspend the heavy bag from its overhead suspension point.

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus that is used to suspend the heavy bag from its overhead suspension point.

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of yet another alternative embodiment of the apparatus that is used to suspend the heavy bag from its overhead suspension point.

FIG. 3 is a close up perspective view of the second station—the dip station.

FIG. 4 is a close up perspective view of selected structures of the second station.

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the dip station illustrating the structures utilized to attach the apparatus to the support frame, and illustrating how the vertical position of the structures may be adjusted.

FIG. 6 is a close up perspective view of the pull up station illustrating the structures used to allow adjustment of the vertical position of the cross bar, and the horizontal position of the handholds.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a platform that is used with the handholds of the dip station to define a jump-up station.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the heavy bag station, or close combat station, in which additional bags are included to simulate other aspects of training for hand to hand combat.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Exercise apparatus 10 is shown in a first illustrated embodiment in FIG. 1. Each of the four exercise or training stations is described in detail below and each is arranged around a central supporting frame, identified generally with reference number 12. Relative directional terms used herein are based upon the geometric center of exercise apparatus 10 being the reference point, and with the exercise apparatus 10 oriented as it is shown in FIG. 1 on the floor, which defines the ground plane. Thus, the term “downward” refers to the direction toward the floor or ground plane on which the apparatus sits, and “upper” or “upwardly” refers to the opposite direction. The terms “outward” or “outer” are based on the reference point—that is, the geometric center of the apparatus. Thus, the term “outwardly” refers generally in the direction away from the reference point.

Support frame 12 defines a stable platform to which the exercise stations may be attached and around which the stations are located. Although the configuration of support frame 12 may be varied widely, the support frame illustrated in FIG. 1 is defined by four upright frame members, 14, 16, 18, and 20 that are interconnected at their upper ends with horizontal frame members 22, 24, 26 and 28 to define a rectangular frame structure. A single intermediate upper horizontal frame member 29 extends between horizontal members 24 and 28, and as detailed below, defines an attachment point for the first exercise station. With reference to FIG. 2A, it may be seen that frame member 29 extends outwardly beyond the perimeter defined by horizontal frame members 22, 24, 26 and 28, then has an extension 31 at 90 degrees to the frame member 29 and then another extension 33 that is parallel to the frame member 29 and the ground plane. The heavy bag is suspended from extension 33. The lowermost ends of the upright frame members are interconnected with and stabilized by a horizontal frame member 30 that extends between upright members 14 and 20, and a horizontal frame member 32 that extends between uprights 16 and 18. The horizontal frame members 30 and 32 are interconnected by a single intermediate horizontal member 34. The lower ends of the frame members may be formed into stabilizing feet 36, 38, 40 and 42.

All of the frame members described above that define the supporting frame 12 are preferably sturdy, heavy duty material such as rectangular iron tubing that will support the exercise stations and the trainees who are simultaneously using the exercise apparatus. The frame members may be interconnected in any conventional manner, such as welding, or they may be connected with fittings such as bolts or pins that allow the supporting frame 12 to be disassembled as shown in FIG. 2A with the interconnection between frame member 28 and upright frame member 14. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate and understand that the structural configuration and details of the supporting frame may be varied widely from that shown in FIG. 1.

As noted above, exercise apparatus 10 includes at least four separate exercise stations, each of which is utilized to provide a different training technique and/or physical fitness training regime. The first training station, which is the heavy bag station, is referenced generally with identification number 50 The second training station is where the trainees perform a well-known exercise called dips, and is referred to with identification number 100. The third station—the pull up station—is identified with reference number 150, and the fourth station—the core exercising station—is reference generally with number 200. Each of these training stations is detailed below.

The heavy bag training station 50 may aptly be called a close combat training station because it is used to provide training in close combat techniques, in addition to physical fitness training. It is defined by a heavy bag 52 that is suspended from horizontal extension 33 (FIG. 2A). The heavy bag 52 is preferably suspended far enough away from the supporting frame 12 so that a trainee may readily move between the bag 12 and the supporting frame. Heavy bag 52 is a standard bag, which typically weighs around 75 lbs. The upper portion of the bag 52 has plural suspension points, which typically are defined by D rings such as D rings 54 and 56 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A, which are suitably attached to the bag in a conventional manner around an upper peripheral edge of the bag. A suspension hat referenced generally with number 58 is attached the bag 52 and is used to connect the bag and hat to the horizontal frame member 33 as detailed below.

Suspension hat 58 is illustrated in detail in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Importantly, the suspension hat includes rigid suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66—preferably metal struts—that extend from a rigid circular base member 68 to a single suspension point 70. A suspension member such as hook 72 is attached to the suspension point 70. Base member 68 may be a circular plate 74, preferably metallic, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, or may take other alternate forms such as a rigid circumferential rim 76 (FIG. 2C) with the circular base member 68 omitted—both the circular base member 68 and circumferential rim 76 lie in a plane substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis through the bag 52. It will be appreciated that the suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 used with circumferential rim 76 may lie in the same plane as the rim 76—in the manner of a rim and spokes—with one or more suspension arms providing the attachment means for attaching the suspension hat to the overhead suspension point.

Although suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66, and circular base member 68 are preferably fabricated from metal and are rigid, it will be appreciated that numerous materials may be used for these parts. In particular, suitable materials include fiberglass, composites, cable, wire rope, etc. and other similar materials. In addition, rubber may be used so long as it is relatively inflexible, but flexible nonetheless. As such, it is to be understood that the term “rigid” as used herein and in the appended claims refers to a structural and functional quality of whatever “rigid” material is used, that allows the suspension hat to be easily removed from, and replaced onto attachment loop 82. This requires that as the detached heavy bag is lifted, the suspension arms maintain the position of the hook 72 above the heavy bag so that it may easily be attached to the attachment loop. This may be contrasted with prior art heavy bags, which typically are suspended from an overhead hook with chains and hooks. It will be appreciated that replacing a heavy bag that is suspended with chains is nearly impossible for one person to accomplish because when the detached bag is lifted, the chains flop over to one side or the other and are not in a position to be attached to the overhead suspension point. Therefore, the term “rigid” as used to describe the suspension arms and suspension hat described herein contemplates functional properties of a variety of materials that may be aptly described as being “rigid”, as well as their structural properties.

Base member 68 has multiple holes 78 drilled through an outer peripheral portion of the base in and spaced around the periphery in positions to accept hardware such as carabiners 80 that attach to the D rings 54, 56 and thereby attach the suspension hat 58 directly to the heavy bag 52. The D rings (or other attachment points) around the upper periphery of any given heavy bag may not be located at the same position as another heavy bag. Accordingly, the holes 78 may be drilled at regular intervals in order to facilitate attachment of the hat to D rings that are not evenly spaced around the upper perimeter of the bag 52. The diameter of rigid base member 68 measured at its outer rim is preferably about the same as or smaller than the diameter of bag 52. As such, the rigid base member 68 defines a spreader member to which the bag 52 is attached, and from which the bag is suspended. Preferably, the suspension hat 58 is attached closely to the heavy bag in order to minimize relative movement between the bag and the hat. The rigid suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 angle inwardly and upwardly from their points of attachment to the base member 68 and toward suspension point 70, which is located above the axial center point of the bag 52. Stated another way, the suspension point 70 of suspension hat 58 is above the bag 52 and aligned on the longitudinal axis through the bag.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A, hook 72 is used to suspend the suspension hat 58 and the attached bag 52 to the horizontally extending member 33, which is fitted with an attachment loop 82 that depends downwardly from member 33, or other similar device. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the vertical height of heavy bag 52 relative to the floor may be made adjustable by including a mechanism providing for varying the position of the bag relative to the floor.

As detailed below, the heavy bag training station is used to train users in various hand-to-hand combat techniques. One aspect of that type of training involves the trainee grabbing bag 52 and grappling the bag to the ground by removing the bag from its suspension point and dropping to the ground with the bag in the manner of a wrestling move. Because hat 52 defines a rigid suspension system, the user may remove the bag 52 from its suspension by lifting the bag upwardly to disengage hook 72 from attachment loop 82. The user may similarly reattach bag 52 very easily without assistance from another participant. Specifically, the trainee lifts the disconnected bag 52 and thus the suspension hat 58, and re-suspending the bag by placing hook 72 in attachment loop 82. It will be appreciated that a single user is easily able to reattach the bag to the attachment loop without assistance from others. Guides may be utilized to assist the trainee with the step of attaching the hook 72 into the attachment loop 82. As shown in FIG. 2A, the opposite outer ends of guide members may be defined by flared plates 84 and 86 that extend outwardly from the attachment loop 82 to define guided pathways along which the hook may be slid while attaching the bag to the suspension member quickly and accurately.

Because bag 52 is wrestled to the ground by trainees using exercise apparatus 10, (not shown) may optionally be used to guard the metal structures used in suspension hat 58 to minimize chances of injury.

Alternative embodiments of suspension hat 58 are shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D. The structures shown in these embodiments are functionally and structurally equivalent to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. With respect to the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the base member 68 is replaced with a rigid rim 69. The rigid suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 are attached to the rigid rim 69 and angle upwardly and inwardly to suspension point 70, and hook 72. The other structures associated with the embodiment shown in FIG. 2C are identical to those described above. With respect to the embodiment of FIG. 2D, a rigid circular base member 68 is identical to the base member 68 shown in FIG. 2B. However, the plural rigid suspension arms are replaced with a single rigid suspension arm 71 that is attached to the base member 68 at the center point of the plate. A hook 72 is attached to the distal end of the suspension arm 71.

In all cases the rigid suspension hat defines a first member that attaches directly to the attachment points around the upper peripheral edge of the heavy bag (e.g., rigid circular base member 68, rim 69), so that the first member is substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis through the bag. Attached to and extending away from the first member is at least one second member that attaches to the overhead suspension point (e.g., arms 60, 62, 64, 66; arm 71).

As yet another alternative embodiment for suspension hat 58, the rigid plate 68 may have a single rigid arm attached to the center of the plate and extending upwardly therefrom. The hook 72 is attached to the upper end of the single rigid arm. Yet again, the suspension hat 58 may include more than one attachment points, each attached to the rigid plate 68 (or rigid rim 69) with one or more rigid arm members. Of course, in this case multiple overhead attachment points are required.

In addition, first training station 50 may optionally include one or more light bags, such as light bag 300, which is suspended from extension member 33 adjacent heavy bag 52. Other extensions may be added with additional light bags in order to allow the trainee to simulate hand-to-hand combat with multiple adversaries—each light bag 300 and the heavy bag 52 representing an adversary.

With reference to FIG. 8, an alternative embodiment of a heavy bag station 400 is shown to include a heavy bag 52 identical to that described previously, and two additional bags 402 and 404, which are preferably a medium weight bag of around 40 lbs. Bags 402 and 404 are spatially arranged on opposite sides of heavy bag 52 in order to provide a training station that helps to simulate hand to hand combat between the trainee and multiple attackers, each represented by one of the three bags 52, 402 and 404.

Each of the three bags shown in FIG. 8 is attached to an overhead suspension point using a suspension hat 58—like structural features are identified with like reference numbers. It will be noted, in addition, that in FIG. 8 the entire station 400 has been built to be vertically and horizontally adjustable relative to the support frame 12, only a small portion of which is shown in FIG. 8. Thus, the support members that support the three bags define a generally V-shaped structure defined by two horizontal arm members 406 and 408 that meet at an apex 410. A horizontal arm 412 extends from apex 410 toward the frame 12 and is longitudinally slidable in member 29 to adjust the horizontal position of the station 400 relative to the frame 12—the arm 412 includes plural bores 414 along the length thereof and a pin 416 secures the arm 412 to the member 29. Each of the bags 52, 402 and 404 is individually adjustable in the vertical direction. For example, as shown with respect to bag 402, the attachment loop 82 is attached to the lower end of a vertical member 418 that is slidable in a vertical sleeve 420 that is attached to the distal end of horizontal arm member 408. The member 418 has plural bores 422 along the length thereof, and the vertical sleeve has bores to accommodate a pin 424. It will be readily appreciated that the vertical height of bag 402 may be adjusted by inserting pin 424 in a selected bore 422. The same structure is used with bags 52 and 404 as well, so all are independently adjustable.

It will also be apparent that the suspension hats 58 shown in FIG. 8 in connection with all three of the bags 52, 402 and 404 represent an alternative embodiment where the suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 are attached directly to the D-rings of the bags, thereby omitting the circular base members and their alternative, the circumferential rims 76. The suspension hats 58 in FIG. 8 are defined by the suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 and the hook 72 or other attachment means used to attach the bags to the overhead suspension point defined by attachment loops 82.

Both the second training station—dip station 100—and the third training station—pull up station 150—are primarily intended to provide upper body strength training. However, as detailed below, each of these stations is specially adapted to allow the user to exercise his or her legs in certain circumstances.

Attention now is directed to the second training station, or dip station 100. With reference to FIG. 1, dip station 100 comprises a pair of horizontally extending handholds 102 and 104 that extend outwardly from a base member 106 that is adjustably attached between upright frame members 14 and 16. As best illustrated in FIG. 3, base member 106 comprises a rigid length of tubing having a square cross sectional configuration. An attachment member 108 is provided to connect the base member to the upright frame members in a manner that allows for vertical adjustment of the position of the handholds 102 and 104 along the upright frame members. Each attachment member 108 is defined by a plate 110 that is then angled at a 90 degree angle to define a second plate section 112, and an upwardly extending arm section 114. A pin 116 is attached to upwardly extending arm section 114 near the upper end thereof. The second plate section 112 of an attachment member 108 is attached to each of the opposite outer ends of the base member 106 as shown in FIG. 3.

As noted, the base member 106 is removably attached to the upright frame members 14 and 16 to allow for vertical adjustment of the position of the dip station 100 relative to the ground. This allows for users of different height to use the station, and as detailed below, allows a user to adjust the position of the handholds during an exercise regimen. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, plural L-shaped cups, identified with reference numbers 120 a, 120 b, 122 a, 122 b, etc. are located along the inner-facing surfaces 119 of upright arm members 14 and 16—the L-shaped cups with the same numerical reference number are horizontally aligned at the same height or elevation on the opposed upright members. Thus, cup 120 a is at the same height elevation as cup 120 b, cup 122 a is aligned with 122 b, and so on. Base member 106 and the attached handholds 102 and 104 are attached to the upright frame members 14 and 16 by inserting pins 116 in horizontally aligned cups, then allowing the plates 110 to lie against the outer-facing surfaces 121 of the upright frame members. It will be appreciated that as force is applied to handholds 102 and 104 in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 3 (e.g., the force of gravity or the force applied by a trainee using the dip station), plates 110 are pressed against the adjacent upright frame members and the vertical position of the base member and handholds is maintained with pins 116.

The vertical position of the base member and handholds may be changed very quickly. With reference to FIG. 5 it may be seen that the handholds (only handhold 102 is shown in FIG. 5) may be adjusted vertically upwardly by pivoting the outermost ends of the handholds upwardly so that the base member 106 and its attached structures pivots about pins 116 in L-shaped cups 128 a (and 128 b, which is not shown). The entire base member and handholds are raised upwardly as shown with the dashed arrow B and the pins 116 are re-inserted into the desired L-shaped cups, in this case cups 130 a (and 130 b, not shown).

Handholds 102 and 104 are further adjustable laterally along the length of base member 106. With returning reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the handholds 102 and 104 has an inverted generally U-shaped member 132 attached to the base of the handhold, for example, by welding. The U-shaped member 132 is sized and cooperatively shaped to extend over the base member 106 as illustrated. As noted above, base member 106 is square in cross sectional configuration. It will be appreciated that because the base member 106 is square, the handholds are maintained in a horizontal position relative to the ground plane and cannot rotate relative to the base member. A bolt 134 extends through a bore in each of the U-shaped members and a nut 136 is attached to the end of the bolt. There is a slight tolerance between the U-shaped members 132 and the base member 106. This allows the handholds to be slid independently along base member 106 as illustrated with arrow C in FIG. 4.

The third station, pull up station 150, is illustrated in isolation in FIG. 6. Pull up station 150 includes a pair of handholds 152 and 154 suspended below a cross bar 156 by any convenient linkage that allows the handholds to be quickly and easily removed by the trainee. The opposed ends of the cross bar 156 (identified with reference numbers 157 and 159) are captured in retaining cups attached to upright frame members 18 and 20. Cross bar 156 includes a bored flange 158 that is welded to the cross bar and which depends from the lower side thereof. Flange 158 includes plural bores 160 along its length. Each handhold 152 and 154 includes an S hook 162 that has a lower end attached to the handhold (in the illustration, the lower portion of S hook 162 is attached to a latching swivel 164 and the handhold is attached to the latching portion of the swivel), and the upper portion of the S hook is inserted through a bore 160. The S hook 162 is easily removed from a bore 160, which allows the trainee using the pull up station 150 to quickly change the separation distance between the handholds, as illustrated with arrow A, to fit the individual's needs.

The vertical position of cross bar 156 relative to the ground and upright frame members 18 and 20 is also readily adjustable as illustrated with arrow B in FIG. 6. Plural, paired L-shaped cups, identified with reference numbers 170 a, 170 b, 172 a, 172 b, etc. are located along the respective outer-facing surfaces 178 of upright frame members 18 and 20—the L-shaped cups with the same numerical reference number are vertically aligned on the upright members. Thus, cup 170 a is at the same height elevation as cup 170 b, cup 172 a is aligned with 172 b, and so on. The cups are shown in FIG. 6 as being attached to the upright frame members with bolts 180, but it will be appreciated that the cups may be attached in any convenient manner.

The vertical position of the cross bar 156 and handhold 152 and 154 may be changed very quickly—the user simply removes the cross bar 156 from the cups in which the cross bar is being held (cups 172 a and 172 b in FIG. 6) by lifting the bar upwardly, adjusts the height of the bar to the desired level, and places the ends of the bar into the desired cups. The opposite ends of flange 158 are angled at 182 and the width of the flange at its widest point is slightly less than the width measured between the inner edges of paired cups, such as cups 172 a and 172 b. As such, when the cross bar 156 is placed in the cups, the angled portion 182 of the flange prevents the cross bar from sliding longitudinally in the cups, and the flange keeps the cross bar centered.

With returning reference to FIG. 1, core station 200 is defined by three sit up benches, 202, 204 and 206. Each of the three sit up benches is identical and is defined by an angled bench 208 that is supported at its outermost end 210 with a foot 212. The opposite end of the bench 213 is also supported by its attachment to a support arm such that a foot bar is spaced apart from the floor. A hand bar 218 extends upwardly near end 213. The benches may be padded, if desired. The benches 202, 204 and 206 are used in a conventional manner with the user's head near outermost end 210 and with the user's feet under the foot bar.

The number of benches and their orientations relative to one another and their orientation relative to the support frame 12 are not critical features.

Use of exercise apparatus 10 will now be described with reference to FIG. 1. Apparatus 10, as configured in FIG. 1, is suited for simultaneous use by up to six trainees. Although fewer may use the apparatus at any one time, by training in a group there is a group training aspect that enhances the training experience. Preferably, apparatus 10 includes a timer 250 that is readily visible to each trainee—plural timers each displaying identical information may be used so each trainee can easily see the timer. Three trainees are positioned on the three core benches 202, 204 and 206 of core station 200. A trainee is positioned at each of the three other stations, heavy bag station 50, dip station 100 and pull up station 150. The vertical and horizontal positions of handholds 102 and 104 of dip station 100 are adjusted according to the trainee's preference—typically, the vertical adjustment is initially such that the trainee's feet are above the ground when the trainee is in the lowest body position required for the exercise performed at that station. With dips, the lowest body position is when the trainee's arms are fully flexed. Likewise, the vertical and horizontal positions of handholds 152 and 154 of pull up station 150 are adjusted according to the trainee's preference—the vertical adjustment is initially such that the trainee's feet are above the ground when the trainee is suspended from the handholds.

A predetermined timing interval is then set in the timer(s) 250. When this is done, a display 252 on the timer 250 displays the initial training interval. The training interval, which is the duration of time at which the trainees will exercise at their respective initial positions, may be set at any amount of time. A typical training interval is 2 minutes, and accordingly, display 252 would display “2:00”.

A recuperation interval is then set in the timer(s) 250. The recuperation interval is a predetermined time between training intervals during which the trainees may rest. Thus, once a training interval has expired—i.e., display 252 has counted down from 2:00 to 0, the recuperation interval is then displayed on display 252. As with the training interval, the recuperation interval may be any amount of time. Typically, the recuperation interval is 30 seconds; the display automatically displays “:30” once the training interval reaches zero on the display.

With all trainees in position, the timer 250 is started. The trainee at heavy bag station 50 goes through an exercise routine in which, among other things, the trainee grapples the heavy bag 52, removes it from its suspension from extension member 33 and wrestles the bag to the ground. As detailed earlier, the rigid suspension hat 58 allows the trainee to replace the heavy bag 52 in its original suspended position very easily. The trainee may then use light bag 300, and combine that with punching and kicking exercises. The exercise routine may be varied widely according to desired mixed martial arts techniques and protocols.

Simultaneously, the trainee at dip station 100 will begin performing dips, which are a standard exercise. This trainee is required to continue the exercise for the full duration of the training interval. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill that few trainees, even those who are highly fit, will be able to perform dips for the full training interval if the interval is of any length, such as 2 minutes. As such, when the trainee becomes fatigued he or she lowers the handholds 102 and 104 in the manner detailed above to the point where the trainee's feet are on the ground during at least a portion of the dip exercise. With the handholds thus adjusted, the trainee continues to perform dips. However, since the trainee's feet are on the ground during at least a part of each repetition, the trainee will have an assist from their legs. If the trainee continues to fatigue during the training interval, the height of the handholds may be further lowered so there is an even greater assist from the trainee's legs.

Simultaneously, the trainee at pull up station 150 will begin performing pull ups, which also are a standard exercise. This trainee is required to continue repeating the pull ups for the full duration of the training interval. As with dips, it will be appreciated that few athletes are able to perform pull ups for even a 2 minute interval. When the trainee becomes fatigued, he or she lowers the handholds 152 and 154 as described above to the point where their feet are on the ground during at least a portion of the pull up repetition. With the handholds thus adjusted, the trainee continues to perform pull ups with an assist from the trainee's legs during at least a portion of the repetition. The handholds may be lowered further if the trainee continues to fatigue and is unable to finish the training interval at the set height, again, so there is an even greater assist from the trainee's legs.

Simultaneously, the three trainees on the core benches 202, 204 and 206 begin performing sit ups when the timer is started. Optionally, one or two trainees may be provided with weights, such as a medicine ball, to be held in their hands as they perform sit ups. When the trainee is in the most upright position, he or she passes the medicine ball to the trainee on the adjacent core bench, for example, moving in a clockwise rotation.

Once the timer 250 has counted down to zero, the recuperation interval is displayed and begins counting down to zero. An alarm may be used to signal the end of a training interval. During the recuperation interval, all of the trainees rotate into the next sequential exercise position or station and make any adjustments to the station as detailed above. For example, the trainee on core bench 206 moves to pull up station 150, the trainee on pull up station 150 moves to heavy bag station 50, the trainee on heavy bag station moves to dip station 100, the trainee on heavy bag station 100 goes to core bench 202, the trainee on core bench 202 moves to bench 204, and the trainee on bench 204 moves to bench 206. Of course, where the trainees move during the recuperation interval may be varied widely. When the recuperation interval ends, “00:00” is displayed on the display 252, an alarm may sound, and the display is automatically reset to display an identical training interval, which begins immediately. An optional secondary display window 254 on timer 250 may display other information, such as elapsed time and/or the number of training intervals that have elapsed.

This routine of training intervals followed by recuperation intervals is continued until each trainee has performed a training interval at each station, and at each core bench at core station 200. It will be appreciated that if there are six trainees, and if the training interval is set to 2 minutes, the total training time is only 12 minutes (with a total of 3 minutes of recuperation time in the recuperation intervals). Although this is a relatively short period of time for an exercise routine, the training has shown to be highly effective. Moreover, the team camaraderie aspect of a group of individuals training as a team has shown to be highly motivating.

Turning now to FIG. 7, dip station 100 may be easily converted into a different type of exercising station by installing a plate 350 that is configured to be removably attached to the handholds 102 and 104. The plate 350 defines a platform that is used as a jump-up platform. The vertical height of the plate 350 relative to the ground is easily adjustable in the same manner described above with respect to handholds 102 and 104, so the distance that the user jumps up to the jump-up platform may be varied according to the trainee's particular needs, fitness level and fatigue level. Plate 350 includes a channel 352 that is cooperatively shaped with base member 106 of dip station 100. The channel 352 of plate 350 may be fitted over the base member with handholds 102 and 104 remaining in position. When the plate is installed, the plate rests on the handholds, which support it. Two pins 354 are used with spring clips 356 to secure the plate in place over the base member and handholds.

It will be appreciated that various modifications to the equipment used in each of the four training stations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. To provide a few examples, the suspension hat for suspending the heavy bag 52 from an overhead attachment point may utilize a single rigid arm attached to either a circular plate or a peripheral rim. Also, the suspension hat may have multiple rigid arms that are separately attached to separate attachment points to multiple overhead attachment points. Likewise, the manner of providing for both vertical and horizontal adjustment of the handholds for the dip station and pull up station may be varied in equivalent manners to achieve the same functional result. And of course, the hook 72 and attachment loop 82 may be reversed so that the hook depends from the overhead suspension point. Yet another alternative structure for attaching the heavy bag to the overhead suspension point is to replace hook 72 with a ball, and replace attachment loop 82 with a socket configured for accepting and retaining the ball, yet allowing release of the ball (and therefore the heavy bag) when sufficient force is applied to the heavy bag.

While the present invention has been described in terms of a preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill that the spirit and scope of the invention is not limited to those embodiments, but extend to the various modifications and equivalents as defined in the appended claims. 

1. Apparatus for suspending a heavy bag from an overhead suspension point, comprising, an attachment member configured for attaching to the heavy bag, the attachment member having a circular base member and at least one arm having a first end attached to the circular member and extending away therefrom and a second end, configured for removable attachment to said overhead suspension point, said at least one arm having sufficient rigidity along the length thereof between the first and second ends that the heavy bag may be removed from and attached to the overhead suspension point by moving the heavy bag upwardly toward the overhead suspension point.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the circular base member comprises a disk having a diameter that is about the same as the diameter of the heavy bag.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the circular base member is fabricated from a rigid material.
 4. (canceled)
 5. The apparatus according to claim 3 including plural arms attached to the circular base member and extending away therefrom, each of said plural arms fabricated from a rigid material.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 5 wherein each of said plural arms is attached to the circular base member near a peripheral edge thereof, and extend away therefrom and are joined together at a point above and near the center of the circular base member.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 6 including a hook attached to the joined plural arms.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the circular base member and at least one arm are metal.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the circular base member comprises a circumferential rim having a center point and wherein the at least one arm is positioned near the center point.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 9 including plural arms attached to the circumferential rim, each of said plural arms attached to one another near the center point.
 11. Apparatus for suspending a heavy bag having a longitudinal axis from an overhead suspension point, comprising, a suspension hat defined by a first member configured for attachment to the heavy bag, said first member lying in a plane substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis; and a second member having a first portion attached to the first member and a second portion configured for attachment to and detachment from the overhead suspension point, said second member being sufficiently rigid that said heavy bag may be attached to and detached from the overhead suspension point by lifting said heavy bag upwardly toward said suspension point.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the first and second members are rigid.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the first member is a disk.
 14. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the first member is a circumferential rim.
 15. The apparatus according to claim 11 including plural second members, each attached to the first member and configured for attachment to the overhead suspension point.
 16. Apparatus for suspending a heavy bag having a longitudinal axis from an overhead suspension point, comprising, a suspension member configured for attachment to the heavy bag at a proximate end of said suspension member and for attachment to the overhead suspension point at a distal end of said suspension member, said suspension member comprising a material having sufficient stiffness along a length thereof that said heavy bag may be selectively connected to and disconnected from the overhead suspension point by moving said heavy bag upwardly toward said overhead suspension point.
 17. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said suspension member further comprises a planar member extending in a plane substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis, said planar member attached to said bag, and at least one arm attached to the planar member at a proximate end of said at least one arm and said at least one arm configured for attachment to the overhead suspension point at a distal end of said at least one arm.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 17 wherein said planar member comprises a rigid disk.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 17 wherein said planar member comprises a circumferential rim.
 20. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said suspension member further comprises a planar disk extending in a plane substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis, said planar disk attached to said bag, and plural arms attached at their first ends to the planar disk around a peripheral edge of thereof, and each of said arms joined at their second ends near a point on the longitudinal axis. 